There’s no better way to beat the heat than a dip in a refreshing swimming pool. It’s even better when that swimming pool is in your own backyard. Today’s in-ground pools go way beyond the turquoise-lined rectangular shapes that quickly began to populate backyards following WWII. With built-in waterfalls, surrounding gardens, and organic shapes, your pool can be a beautiful element to add to your backyard landscape ideas. Plus, whether your home is a traditional Tudor, a rustic farmhouse, or even a glass-wrapped modern ranch, today’s options in patio and building materials allow your pool to easily complement the architecture and style of your house. Many pool and landscape plans also incorporate different gathering areas with unique dining and seating spots, lush patio plants, and interesting lighting, helping to establish your pool as the center point of all outdoor activity—both for daytime family fun and moodier nighttime gatherings.
While many of these pool designs require a lot of space, a large yard is no longer a make-or-break requirement for a backyard pool. Thanks to flexibility in shape and size, there are many swimming pool designs and plans that are just right for small yards. And, sure, a backyard swimming pool is an investment, but don’t count it out just for fear of cost. There are lots of swimming pool design ideas for all styles and budgets. (Tip: If you’re still not quite ready to commit to an in-ground pool, you can still get in on the backyard game with a low-commitment stock-tank pool.) Once your new, beautiful pool is installed and the water is flowing, you’ll be anxious to invite over your family and friends for a summer full of festive pools parties. Don’t forget the pool floats!
Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below
1
Organic Setting
This Vermont pool features minimal pavement and an integrated fire pit, both of which serve to maintain the visual flow of the existing, grassy landscape. Meanwhile, stacked stone slabs inspire a makeshift waterfall.
Stone Pool by Shepard Butler Landscape Associates
Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below
2
Flowers & Foliage
Lined by hedges and strategically-placed flowering plants, this pool feels indulgent and secluded. An elevated platform adds depth and dimension.
Designed by Randy Angell for Pool Environments, Inc.
Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below
3
Garden Party
The ample entertaining space and lush, flower-filled landscaping surrounding this free-form pool would be heaven for any hostess.
Custom Pool by Thomas Flint Landscape Design & Development
Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below
4
A Pool With a View
This remarkable outdoor patio turns heads by taking advantage of a breathtaking view. It's three-sided design creates the effect of an infinity pool.
Pacific Palisades by Stout Design-Build, Inc.
Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below
5
All the Extras
A diving board, fountain, and, yes, even a small bridge reminiscent of a castle moat make this pool feel positively royal.
Designed by Randy Angell for Pool Environments, Inc.
Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below
6
Understated Elegance
A swim-up gazebo gives an unexpected twist to this otherwise traditional New Jersey swimming pool.
Ridgewood Pool by Thomas Flint Landscape Design & Development
Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below
7
California Dreamin'
Interesting lighting helps this statement backyard pool transform from day to evening.
Atherton Residence 2 by Miller Design Co.
Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below
8
Hill Country Ranch
The back porch of this Texas ranch house is home to plenty of poolside entertaining options, including an outdoor living room, bar, and kitchen.
Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below
9
Natural Space
Surrounded by dense, leafy trees, the pool at this Texas home gives off a one-with-nature vibe.
Remodel by Halifax Homes Inc
Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below
10
Stone-and-Timber Pool House
This pool house complements its Missouri home with timber beams similar to those used inside and impressive stone finishes.
Maison de Cabane by Schaub+Srote Architects
Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below
11
Grassy Surround
The small yard of this charming Long Island home boasts the ideal outdoor space for entertaining friends all summer long.
East Hampton by Benco Construction
Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below
12
Repurposed Shipping Container Pool
Who knew a discarded shipping container would make for such an attractive swimming pool? Modpools is the mastermind behind these heated pools that take only minutes to set up.
Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below
13
Tile Accents
Sometimes, all it takes is a single upgrade—like these decorative tiles—to make your existing swimming pool look and feel brand new.
Outdoor Space by Fireclay Tile
Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below
14
Seating For All
A northern Florida home features several different outdoor spaces for entertaining, accented by stone stairs and a plethora of other impressive architectural enhancements.
Major Renovation by Debra J Interiors
Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below
15
Light Effects
The designers behind this project achieved a refreshing, modern look for the entire patio simply by adding in-ground pool lighting.
Renovation II by Pool Environments, Inc.
Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below
16
Florida Escape
This inviting pool is just a hop, skip, and a jump from the back door of this idyllic warm-weather escape in Key West, Florida.
Holiday Residence by Craig Reynolds Landscape Architecture
Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below
17
By the Water
This lake-front patio gives guests the best seat in the house.
DeLand by Phil Kean Design Group
Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below
18
Outdoor Oasis
A spacious pool is the jewel of this Florida home's backyard.
Cherokee by Phil Kean Design Group
Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below
19
Modern Retreat
This Charlotte family branched out from a cookie-cutter neighborhood with a more customized renovation, complete with a modern pool to match.
Form Haus by Liquid Design
Advertisem*nt - Continue Reading Below
20
California Classic
This California home's uniquely shaped pool is accented with stunning, finely-manicured gardens.
LA Estate by Denise Foley Design Inc.
